The right briefcase for you
Whether you need a premium briefcase for your next big client meeting or a stylish storage solution for doing everyday errands, there is a perfect briefcase for you, no matter your budget. Briefcases are a great way to up your outfit and organize your essentials.
There are endless options to choose from, and your needs will determine which style, material and size is best for you. Those in the market for a high-end, professional briefcase likely will choose one that’s hard-sided and luxurious. On the other hand, if the case is needed for a relaxing day around town, opt for something soft-sided and stylish. Frequent travelers should consider a briefcase with wheels.
Designer briefcases
A briefcase is a great way to impress clients, complete a professional look or reward yourself after closing a big deal. To walk away with a practical but luxurious lifelong accessory, choose a briefcase from a reputable brand with a versatile design. In fact, briefcases in this category very likely can end up being passed down to the next generation.
Top designer briefcase
Tumi Alpha 3 Portfolio Briefcase
What you need to know: The Alpha 3 briefcase is a perfect example of the craftsmanship, practicality and subtle sophistication that Tumi has built its reputation on.
What you’ll love: Practicality and style seamlessly combine in the Alpha 3 briefcase. The Alpha 3 has a gusseted front pocket, a zippered pocket with waterproof lining, a magnetic front slip pocket, a removable padded shoulder strap and an add-a-bag sleeve. Plus, the Alpha 3 comes with Tumi Tracer, which allows you to track your bag should you ever lose it.
What you should consider: Following in Tumi tradition, this bag has a utilitarian, rather than modern, aesthetic.
Top designer briefcase for the money
What you need to know: Complete with genuine leather, brass hardware and a padded laptop pocket, the Haskell briefcase from Fossil offers premium features at an affordable price.
What you’ll love: This model is one of the few products on the market that comes from a recognized brand at a low price. Crafted from lightweight and eco-friendly materials, it’s perfect for the socially conscious frequent traveler.
What you should consider: The lining and strap are made from polyester, which makes them harder to repair and maintain.
Travel briefcases
You can cut down on stress and time spent rummaging through your bags in the airport security line with an efficient travel briefcase.
Top travel briefcase
Tumi Alpha 3 Compact Carry-On Briefcase
What you need to know: The Alpha 3 Carry-On builds off the original Alpha 3 briefcase design and adds a smorgasbord of travel tech.
What you’ll love: Complete with Tumi Tracer, ballistic nylon, a removable accordion file divider and abundant pockets, the Alpha 3 Carry-On is ready to fly. On top of all that, the Alpha 3 provides a built-in USB port for charging on the go. Whether it be at the airport or on the street, you can roll with ease thanks to the five-stage telescoping handle, four dual-spinner wheels, impact-resistant side panels and reinforced bumper rails.
What you should consider: As with most Tumi products, premium features come with a high price tag.
Casual briefcases
Briefcases aren’t just for business. Whether you’re toting a laptop to the coffeeshop, books to class or a first-aid kit on a day trip, the right briefcase can get the job done while looking good.
Top casual briefcase
What you need to know: Sporting a vintage look and high-quality materials, the Messenger briefcase from Augus is a great everyday companion.
What you’ll love: Made from full-grain leather and supported by single-cast hardware, it’s durable and stylish. The buttery leather combines with soft sides to create a versatile accessory that can be dressed up for the office or down for picnics in the park.
What you should consider: While full-grain leather is luxurious, it can be heavy.
Top casual briefcase for the money
CoolBell Convertible Briefcase
What you need to know: The model from CoolBell is the ultimate bag for versatility as it can be carried as a backpack, briefcase or messenger bag.
What you’ll love: Made from lightweight nylon cloth and leather accents, the Convertible briefcase is casual yet smart. Plus, the liner is 210D waterproof fabric, so you don’t have to worry about spills while you wear it as a backpack in transit. It’s also large enough to hold three days’ worth of clothes.
What you should consider: The shoulder straps are rather skinny.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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